ISP asking people to stay off the roads

Don't drive if you don't have to. That's what Indiana State Police are asking of the public as brutal temperatures move in.

Posted: Jan 29, 2019 11:08 PM

Posted By: Demie Johnson

TIPPECANOE COUNTY, Ind. (WLFI) — Don't drive if you don't have to. That's what Indiana State Police are asking of the public as brutal temperatures move in.

This time of year road conditions can be deceiving.

"With the heavy wind and snow especially up a little further north, the roads can get bad quick," said Trooper Corey Brown.

Police have been busy dealing with slide-offs the past few days. Sgt. Kim Riley said many of those happened because people underestimate how bad the roads actually are.

"We don't want people out driving when it's this cold out," said Riley.

But if you absolutely have to, there are some things Sgt. Riley wants you to know.

"The salt doesn't work when it's this cold you're going to get the snow blowing across the road, people are driving over that and it's causing black ice and it's causing slick spots in the roadway," he said.

If you find yourself starting to slide, don't slam on your breaks. Instead, turn your wheel in the direction you're sliding and pump the breaks.

Sgt. Kim Riley said make sure your tank is full and your car is stocked, that way if you get stranded you're comfortable waiting on police.

"If you're not going to be able to get yourself out, as cold as it is the only thing we really want you to do is keep the car running,"

And finally Riley said just because you don't see snow on the roads, it doesn't mean they are safe.

"Just because it looks good, it feels good doesn't mean it is good."

Sgt. Riley said troopers will be working extended shifts to patrol the highways. They'll also be on the look out to help people who are stranded.

COVID-19 Important links and resources

As the spread of COVID-19, or as it's more commonly known as the coronavirus continues, this page will serve as your one-stop for the resources you need to stay informed and to keep you and your family safe. CLICK HERE

Closings related to the prevention of the COVID-19 can be found on our Closings page.